Swanton / lower channelon Missisquoi River
Cool
- 01Cool, overcast weather sets up classic fall trout fishing on the Missisquoi River.
- 02Blue-Winged Olive (BWO) hatches are anticipated, especially on overcast afternoons.
- 03Subsurface nymphing with Pheasant Tail Nymphs and Flashback Hare's Ear Nymphs will be productive.
- 04Streamers like the Woolly Bugger (Olive) and Pine Squirrel Leech (Olive) are excellent for aggressive trout.
- 05Egg patterns, such as the Blood Dot Egg, are key during fall spawning periods.
What to tie on at Swanton / lower channel
Picked from recent reports for this stretch.
October Caddis (Dry)
While often associated with western rivers, October Caddis can provide substantial dry fly action in eastern freestone rivers during the fall.
Buy at AmazonPheasant Tail Nymph
This classic nymph effectively imitates various mayfly nymphs, a consistent subsurface food source, especially during fall BWO activity.
Buy at AmazonPine Squirrel Leech (Olive)
Small leech patterns are effective for enticing strikes from larger, more lethargic trout as the Missisquoi's water temperatures drop.
Woolly Bugger (Olive)
A versatile streamer, ideal for imitating leeches and baitfish, which become a key food source for aggressive trout in the Missisquoi's cooling fall waters.
Blood Dot Egg
Fall signifies egg season on the Missisquoi, with trout keying into egg patterns below any spawning fish.
Buy at AmazonZebra Midge
The Zebra Midge is a staple for winter trout. In February, midge larvae and pupae are the most consistent food source available in the substrate. Black or red colors in small sizes mimic the natural chironomids perfectly.
Buy at AmazonRS2
Fished as a trailing nymph or emerger, the RS2 perfectly imitates the midge pupae rising toward the surface on relatively warmer afternoons. Gray and olive colors are most effective for Vermont freestones.
Mother's Day Caddis
The prolific Mother's Day Caddis hatch is expected in late April through May, making this dry fly a perfect imitation for adult caddis.
Elk Hair Caddis
Caddisfly adults are becoming active in late spring, making this a reliable dry fly choice for rising trout.
Buy at AmazonVermont season by season
What changes on the water through the year, with the flies for each season.
Fly shops nearby
Local flies, current advice and guided trips.